Understanding Tracheoesophageal Birth Defects
Project-2: Modeling TE birth defects in animals
This project aims to uncover the genetic and cellular causes of life-threatening birth defects where the trachea and esophagus do not properly separate.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11121921 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are working to understand why some babies are born with tracheoesophageal defects (TEDs), a condition where the windpipe and food pipe don't form correctly. Even when we know a genetic change is involved, it's often unclear how that change leads to the defect. Our previous work used animal models like frogs and mice to map out the normal steps of how these organs develop. We also found that problems with how cells manage their membranes can lead to TEDs. This project will continue to use animal models to pinpoint the exact cellular processes that go wrong, helping us understand the root causes of TEDs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit infants born with tracheoesophageal defects in the future.
Not a fit: Patients without tracheoesophageal defects or related congenital conditions would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of tracheoesophageal defects, potentially guiding future strategies for prevention or treatment.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this team has successfully identified key cellular events and genetic factors involved in the development of these defects in animal models.
Where this research is happening
Cincinnati, United States
- Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr — Cincinnati, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zorn, Aaron M — Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Zorn, Aaron M
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.